Six Steps You Should Take After a Hit and Run a Hit and Run Truck Collision

If you are injured in a hit and run truck crash, you should not give up hope of locating the negligent trucker who fled the scene. You may also have other options, such as filing a claim with your own insurance company under uninsured motorist coverage, for obtaining the compensation you deserve for your injuries.

However, you need to take immediate steps to identify the truck driver and trucking company and build your case against them. Here are six steps you should take right away.

#1: Don’t Chase the Trucker

You should not try to chase after the truck driver who struck your vehicle. You could endanger yourself and other motorists. In addition, you could face criminal charges for fleeing the scene. Instead, write down any identifying information about the truck that you can remember, such as its license number, trucking company name or logo, and the make and model of the truck.

#2: Call the Police

Contact the police at the scene of the collision and provide them with any identifying information about the truck. It is a crime in Virginia to cause a hit and run accident. The police will conduct a criminal investigation and may be able to locate the truck driver.

You should also obtain a copy of the police report to provide to the insurance company when you file your claim. It will contain helpful information, such as:

• The date, time, and place of your truck accident
• How your crash occurred
• Officer’s conclusions as to who was at fault
• Any traffic citations issued

#3: Get Medical Care

It is important to obtain prompt medical care—even if you do not believe you were hurt. Being examined by a doctor within 72 hours of the hit and run truck accident protects your health, especially if you suffered a hidden injury, such as a back injury, traumatic brain injury, or internal bleeding. In addition, it can help you avoid disputes with the insurance company over what caused your injuries.

#4: Take Pictures

Use your cellphone camera to take pictures of the damage to your vehicle, the collision scene, your injuries, and anything else you think could be helpful. They could help you prove how the crash occurred if this becomes an issue and can be compelling evidence to show a jury.

#5: Identify Witnesses

You should obtain the contact information for any witnesses to your hit and run truck accident. They may have helpful information to help you locate the trucker and prove that they caused your wreck.

#6: Retain an Attorney

You need to hire an experienced truck accident lawyer as soon as possible after your accident. They can assist you in identifying the trucker who fled the scene and will go up against the insurance company so that you receive the maximum recovery in your settlement. They can also file a claim with your own insurance company—and any other negligent parties if this becomes necessary.

Were you or a family member injured in a hit and run truck accident? Contact our Norfolk office to schedule a free initial consultation to learn how we can assist you.